Bare Copper - Is There a Reason For Copper Wire Without Insulation?

There are different reasons for all types of wire and cable including bare copper. Sometimes wire has insulation and sometimes it doesn't for specific reasons. Engineers work hard to provide a type of wire for every application out there with approvals to go with it.

Bare copper is also known as a ground wire. It is not insulated at all so it has no protection. It is mostly used in homes as a ground wire and has the best conductivity without insulation. So as long as it isn't going outdoors then electrical contractors don't mind using it.

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Bare copper is also the base for most types of wire and cable. It comes solid or in smaller awg sizes wrapped together to equal the same gauge. Using the smaller awg sizes gives the wire more flexibility to bend around corners. You might think that you would always need the most flexible because it could only be better but that's not always the case. Sometimes electrical contractors need it to be more stiff so they can send it a long way through conduit.

A green THHN wire is also known as a ground wire when the wire needs to be outdoors. Green calls out the fact the THHN is a ground wire and the reason for the insulation is so it has protection against moisture. It can then go outdoors and in conduit while it still acts as a ground wire. The reason for using it indoors without insulation is simply because it's cheaper. Sometimes you might see this wire with a yellow stripe as well.

There isn't always a ground wire in every cable. If you need one then I recommend talking to your cable sales person and making sure they know that as well. Most companies that supply wire also supply the bare copper so you shouldn't have a problem getting it if you need it. You can usually request a specification sheet to make sure you are getting the exact cable you are looking for.

Bare Copper - Is There a Reason For Copper Wire Without Insulation?

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Copper Sinks

Copper sinks are gaining more and more popularity in home décor, not only because of its beauty, but also because of its functionality. Read on to find out the very interesting characteristics of copper sinks, and see if it is right for your home.

Copper sinks are maintenance free. Copper sinks are built to last and grow even more beautiful with time. As they age, copper sinks turn into medium coppery brown. Just leave the naturally oxidized patina untreated, and it will achieve a light bronze color in time. There's no need to clean a copper sink with harsh chemicals- simply wash it with soap and water, and it's as good as new. If you don't want a copper sink to turn light, you can apply brass or furniture wax.

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Copper sinks are cleaner Cooper sinks prove to be more sanitary than regular sinks. Copper has natural antibacterial elements, so that bacteria do not survive on its surface. In fact, many studies show that copper may be better than stainless steel when it comes to sanitation - bacteria cal live for several days on stainless steel but do not survive for more than a few hours on copper.

Copper sinks add elegance to any bathroom or kitchen. Most copper sinks are made completely by hand, making each and every one of them works of art. Copper is very basic and elegant - it can enhance any bathroom's look and style.

There are 'natural' copper sinks that are reddish in color for Asian-inspired and contemporary homes, and there are 'clear' finishes that make the copper sink look brownish - perfect for classic bathroom designs.

Before you invest in a copper sink, make sure that you are buying a quality piece. Remember that some of the less expensive coppers are recycled copper and are only 90 percent pure. These recycled coppers are made from melted-down computers, machines and other electrical equipment. These cheaper versions may seem more sensible at first, but will cost you more money in repairs and replacement.

Copper Sinks

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